Smith rewarded for standout debut season

Described by Head Coach, Simone McKinnis OAM, as being super-competitive, hungry for a contest, and boasting plenty of flair and athleticism, Smith brings a newfound energy to the Vixens group.

“I’m so excited, I’m literally over the moon. I’ve been working so hard since I was younger, and it’s really rewarding now that it’s starting to pay off,” Smith said.

Smith was instrumental in the 2020 Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) season, after debuting in Round 10, and then stepping up as the starting wing defence in replace of Kate Eddy, who missed the Major Semi Final through injury. Her ability to step up and perform for the team when it counted – despite her relative inexperience - earned her the Vixens 2020 Rookie of the Year Award.

“This year has honestly been so surreal. I don’t think I could have ever imagined this year panning out as it has. COVID has been an absolute nightmare – the pandemic has caused a lot of grief for a lot of people. But, in a way without COVID I wouldn’t be where I am.

“The hub was a great experience and great exposure to the elite environment and I’d happily do it all again.

“I’ve grown up sort of admiring all of the girls that I’ve played alongside this year at the Vixens and it’s just been amazing on so many different levels.”

The 20-year-old has already ticked off a number of achievements in her netball career, including a National 17/U Championship, a National 19/U Championship, a Victorian Netball League Championship Division Premiership and a Victorian Fury Premiership in 2019. And after taking to the court in the 2020 SSN Grand Final, she can add a Suncorp Super Netball Premiership to her list of accolades as well.

“The Netball Victoria pathway speaks for itself and the development it provides. To see so many young athletes like myself get to this level is a testament to the programs, coaches and staff along the journey.

“I’m just really excited to learn more and more from the people around me going into next season. I’ve had the pleasure of learning from the Vixens over the past two years, and also within the ANL with the Victorian Fury.

“But next year I’m just looking forward to being a sponge and absorbing everything I can, and to watch, listen and learn.”

Smith makes up the final piece of the Vixens puzzle for 2021, joining Kate Moloney, Mwai Kumwenda, Emily Mannix, Kadie-Ann Dehaney, Jo Weston, Liz Watson, Kate Eddy plus Kaylia Stanton and Ruby Barkmeyer as Vixens players contracted for 2021.